Smoking: New advertising bans are coming
Christine Albert studied German linguistics and literature as well as Scandinavian studies at the Albert Ludwigs University in Freiburg. She is currently doing a traineeship at Hubert Burda Media and is writing, among other things, for
More about the experts All content is checked by medical journalists.Health experts have been warning for years to finally curb tobacco advertising more strictly. In a second attempt, additional bans have now been sealed, which will gradually take effect. That is not enough for everyone.
Protect young people in particular
The advertising of smoking is further banned in Germany in order to protect young people in particular from health hazards. From 2022, there will be a ban on advertising on billboards - initially for conventional tobacco products. From 2023 it should also apply to tobacco heaters, from 2024 for e-cigarettes. The Federal Council cleared the way for this on Friday.
As early as January 1, 2021, cinema advertising for smoking will be taboo if a film is approved for under 18-year-olds. This should also end with the distribution of free samples outside of specialist shops, for example at music festivals. In addition, tobacco products should no longer be prizes in competitions.
Restrictions long overdue
Doctors have long been calling for further bans in Germany to protect young people from smoking. In the previous electoral term, an attempt to do so failed due to opposition from the Union. In July, however, the Bundestag decided on a compromise between the SPD and the Union.
The responsible Federal Minister Julia Klöckner (CDU) told the German Press Agency that far-reaching advertising restrictions were long overdue. "Health protection must come first here." The Federal Drug Commissioner Daniela Ludwig (CSU) reacted with satisfaction that it was "finally" done. She pointed out that 120,000 people die every year in Germany as a result of tobacco consumption.
Advertising creates key stimuli
Medical President Klaus Reinhardt told the dpa that many studies have shown that advertising increases the attractiveness of tobacco products, especially among children and adolescents. "Even for addicted smokers, advertising constantly sets key stimuli that make it difficult to get out of addiction." It is good that outdoor advertising is finally banned. Tobacco advertising is already banned on radio and TV, newspapers and magazines.
Reinhardt explained that it was observed with great concern that young people were being introduced to smoking by e-cigarettes. "For this reason, bans on outdoor advertising should also come into force as quickly as possible for electronic vaporizers." The planned "grace periods" for tobacco heaters and e-cigarettes are problematic, criticized several medical-scientific societies. The German Cancer Research Center complained: "Tobacco advertising will remain in the public space." Because it is allowed at the "point of sale" - including at supermarkets, stationery stores and petrol stations.
No smoking in cars
Medical President Reinhardt called for further steps to be taken to protect children. "It is urgently necessary to ban smoking in cars when children and young people are on board." In vehicles, the fine dust pollution from tobacco smoke is roughly equivalent to that of an average smoky bar. "If there is a lack of reason and a sense of responsibility, sanctions-reinforced bans are inevitable," said the head of the German Medical Association.
Do you want to quit smoking? Strategies to end tobacco use can be found in this article. It can also be helpful to re-examine the consequences for your health. (approx / dpa)
